The Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) support group in Russellville is hosting two screenings of “Love Free or Die” Sunday and Monday at the All Saint’s Episcopal Church in Russellville.

“Love Free or Die” shares the story of Bishop Gene Robinson, an openly gay bishop in the Episcopal church.

Robinson was married for 13 years and fathered two children before divorcing his wife in 1986. Robinson struggeled with his sexuality for several years and it was with his wife’s support that he told their two children about his sexuality choices.

Robinson met his life partner, Mark Andrew in 1987 and lived life openly gay within the church.

When he was nominated for the position of Bishop in 2003, it was amid controversy. He wore a bullet proof vest to his consecration ceremony.

The film documented Robinson’s journey calling for everyone to unite to create change across the nation, from small-town churches to the Washington’s Lincoln Memorial.

A spokesperson for All Saints’ said the PFLAG support group was hosting the event at the church to support the gay and lesbian community within Russellville.

“We hold very dear and respect the dignity of all human beings,” the spokesperson said. “Just because someone is different doesn’t mean they aren’t a child of God. We are fulfilling our vows to love as God loves.”

The Sunday screening is at 1:30 p.m. and on Monday there is a reception at 5:30 p.m. before the screening at 6 p.m. at All Saints.

The film received several awards and accolades, including U.S. Documentary Special Jury Prize for An Agent of Change at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival, the Human Rights Award at the 2012 Riverrun International Film Festival, Best Documentary Award at the 2012 Philadelphia QFest and the Audience Award for Best Documentary at the 2012 Connecticut Gay and Lesbian Film Festival.

"Love Free or Die"

1:30 p.m. on Sunday and 6 p.m. on Monday at All Saint's Episcopal Church located at 501 South Phoenix Ave.

Love Free or Die was worthy of a Sundance Film Festival award. It was funny, truthful, and moving all the way through. It's well worth watching. Any thoughtful individual should see it. Any group that calls itself Christian should want to. It could change minds.